Chinese Research Team Proposes Global Nuclear Defense System to Counter Asteroids Threatening Earth
According to RT on August 28, scientists from China’s deep space exploration program recently suggested that nuclear weapons may be the best means to protect Earth from asteroids.
Chinese researchers believe nuclear weapons could save Earth from asteroids – (Illustrative image: RT/GETTY IMAGES).
In a paper published in the journal SCIENTIA SINICA Technologica this month, the research team warned that despite recent advancements in near-Earth object detection technology, errors still could occur. This means that humanity needs to prepare to deal with space debris.
The Chinese researchers analyzed various defensive methods and their feasibility in protecting Earth from asteroids of differing sizes, densities, and warning times.
They found that in the short term, such as one week before a collision, nuclear warheads would be the only option capable of altering an asteroid’s trajectory to prevent impact.
Based on their analysis, the research team proposed that the best solution to counter threats from asteroids is to develop a global nuclear defense system.
This system would need to include rapid launch platforms capable of sending nuclear warheads from the ground into space within a timeframe of 7 days to a month. The system should also be equipped with precision strike missiles.
Additionally, this system should allow for the pre-deployment of nuclear warheads in orbit for extended periods, potentially exceeding 10 years.
Nuclear Explosions Cause Space Radiation Contamination However, the Chinese researchers noted that the aforementioned idea faces several challenges. Firstly, currently, no country has the capability to launch nuclear warheads into deep space, meaning new launch systems must be developed. Secondly, China and most nuclear-armed countries worldwide are parties to the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty, which prohibit signatories from deploying weapons of mass destruction in space. Thirdly, nuclear explosions cause radiation contamination even in space, which could adversely affect Earth and nearby celestial bodies. Therefore, the scientists concluded that although a nuclear explosion might have “incredible self-defense potential” in this scenario, it would be better for humanity to explore alternative technologies capable of addressing asteroid threats, such as high-powered laser weapons. |
